FROM: MICK DOAK
RE: GOAT NEWS
DATE: 15TH NOVEMBER 01
NEW EXPORT CAPRETTO MARKET
We have been able to negotiate a new deal with through WAMMCO for the 5 to 6 kg dressed weight range of Capretto. The price for this weight range will be $30.00 per head at Katanning or $29.00 delivered to Midland Junction. The improvement in price will give growers the opportunity to sell their kids at a lighter weight and not get caught with carryover kids into the New Year. Growers have taken advantage naturally of the better price being paid for the 6.1 to 9 kg, with many consigning a smaller percentage of kids under the 6.1kg this year than in previous years. This years average carcass weight is expected to be close to 7 kg, which would be nearly one kg up on last year.
Although there is still a reluctance by a few growers to support the export market for one reason or another, the aprox eighty growers who have supported this market have done an excellent job this year, (in for some trying conditions)
We are continuing to try and improve the returns for growers as shown by the better price achieved this year for not only the ones that grade but for over weights as well. Our big problem like most industries which rely on a large work force, and government fee parts which go into making up the hidden processing costs for export products, which unfortunately we are unable to do anything about.
Growers have shown that it is not hard to breed and select animals for this market and their willingness to learn and communicate with myself as the co-ordinator has made every ones job a lot easier than was expected with the closure of Linley Valley. Although the season is not expected to finish until Christmas a special thanks must go to Fiona Clay and the rest of the WAMMCO staff. Mark Fleming, drivers and support staff from BRT transport for their helpful and courteous transport of the Capretto from Midland to Katanning.
At this stage of the Export Capretto season we have less down grades than in previous years, which is surprising considering the extra transport and handling most kids have had to endure. With the sudden change in paddock feed quality for most growers we may have a few starting to change meat colour, due to the stress factors including heat and a lack of milk as mum dries up. Growers should sell kids as soon as they reach the minimum weight required unless they wish to wean them off and aim for the Local or Live export market in the new year.
INCREASE DEMAND FOR EXPORT MALES
We have been advised by several Live Exporters that the demand for both entire males and wethers is expected to reach a high level in late December and January due to the Muslim religious festival of Haj. The demand will be for Rangeland and Agricultural male Goats only from 28 kg live weight upwards. They will need to also be protocoled suitable for the Saudi market and should have no more than six permanent teeth.
Ships are expected to go from both the West and East coasts so if you have any please contact your local Wesfarmers Landmark representative.
For further details contact Mick Doak on Mb
0428439978 or Ah Ph/Fax 08 93093225 or Email: doakmick@bigpond.com.au
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